Chris:

Your comments on Scorpa timing were interesting.  Having not owned a Scorpa, I
was curious about the degree of latitude (no pun intended) available for
timing adjustments on the Rotax motor.

Modifying timing from stock position is an option that is not considered by
the majority of riders, but can make a tremendous difference in power delivery
for various competition conditions.  Smooth power delivery will be a major
benefit in riding sections no-stop, which we will most certainly be doing next
year.  For those riders not purchasing new bikes with engines designed for no-
stop, the ability to smooth out power delivery via retarded timing will be
very helpful in lowering scores.

Designing competition motorcycles for sale to the public presents an
interesting marketing problem.  Everyone wants the "latest-and-greatest, most
radical, super-trick World Round factory equipment," whether it makes sense
for their level of riding or not.  How do you design a motorcycle suited for
everyone from World Round competitors down to the local Novice Class rider?
Clearly, it can't be done.  However, if the manufacturers DON'T market the
motorcycle in it's "hottest" form, it will be perceived as a watered-down
pretender to it's World Round counterpart.  In short, it won't sell.  Gas Gas
should be commended for its marketing commitment to design bikes that can be
ridden successfully by the majority of real-life riders, not just World Round
competitors.  The reason the Scorpa comes timed so "hot" is most likely that
if they offered it stock in "mellow" form, it would be accused of being low on
power.

Interestingly, Honda (in their infinite wisdom), has configured their engine
such that timing cannot be modified from stock.  A bit arrogant, to my way of
thinking.  Maybe I'd LIKE to screw around a bit with my timing...it's my
motorcycle!

Go figure...

Jon Rentschler
Inter-Zona Trialsport